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Espen Emperors #2
Base Hit
Vander Devlin. The left fielder everyone had overlooked.
An off the charts batting average, a long throw, and fast on his feet. No team wanted him. His downfall was his interest in men. He refused to hide himself for baseball. Then baseball’s golden boy came out. Now, Vander found himself in the majors with a chip on his shoulder.
One dance with Evan Ashland and he was hooked.
Evan, heir to the Ashland cosmetic empire, lived a simple life. Being the CEO of a corporation never appealed to him. Happy with his teaching job, he loved working at the stadium at night to watch the players. He didn’t plan to touch.
Evan let the world see the eternal playboy when what he really wanted was the fairytale. A partner to rule his kingdom by his side.
A dance with the Emperors’ newest left fielder made him wonder what he might be missing.
With the memories of the way he caught his ex cheating, Evan had a hard time trusting anyone with his heart. He’d built fortresses to protect his kingdom, even as he longed for someone to let in.
As he struggled to find his way on his new team, Vander was determined to breach the walls Evan built no matter what it took.
Life was hard. Being alone was harder. The choice of being who you were and being who others wanted you to be didn’t help.
The bat connected. The ball sailed between the outfielders. Now it was time for Vander to race toward the base.
An off the charts batting average, a long throw, and fast on his feet. No team wanted him. His downfall was his interest in men. He refused to hide himself for baseball. Then baseball’s golden boy came out. Now, Vander found himself in the majors with a chip on his shoulder.
One dance with Evan Ashland and he was hooked.
Evan, heir to the Ashland cosmetic empire, lived a simple life. Being the CEO of a corporation never appealed to him. Happy with his teaching job, he loved working at the stadium at night to watch the players. He didn’t plan to touch.
Evan let the world see the eternal playboy when what he really wanted was the fairytale. A partner to rule his kingdom by his side.
A dance with the Emperors’ newest left fielder made him wonder what he might be missing.
With the memories of the way he caught his ex cheating, Evan had a hard time trusting anyone with his heart. He’d built fortresses to protect his kingdom, even as he longed for someone to let in.
As he struggled to find his way on his new team, Vander was determined to breach the walls Evan built no matter what it took.
Life was hard. Being alone was harder. The choice of being who you were and being who others wanted you to be didn’t help.
The bat connected. The ball sailed between the outfielders. Now it was time for Vander to race toward the base.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 29, 2021
111 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Haven Hadley
10 books64 followersHaven Hadley is romance writing duo Rebecca Brooke and Michelle Dare. After being friends for years, they decided to venture together into the genre they both loved to read—M/M. Slow burn, sexy, angst-filled stories are their favorite. Both are wives and moms who love dogs, the beach, and baseball, even if they root for rival teams. With every Haven Hadley book, you’ll get stories filled with emotion, romance, hot scenes, and a happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
August 7, 2021
First impressions - love at first sight story with its unique spin.
Vander has just been called up to the pros after being stuck in the minors for 3 years as he believes because he is openly gay. However, when he targets a lot of this blame, unnecessary, towards Callen which isn't fair. This also makes his start on the team a bit rocky and might also leave his long-term time on the team in peril. During his 1st at-bat for Espen Emperors, he gets on base and that is when Vander sees the "sexiest man I’d ever seen."
Mr. "sexiest man I’d ever seen" a.k.a. Evan, who was introduced in the 1st book as best friends to Spencer, at the same time Vander was up to bat also saw the Left Fielder and he definitely caught Evan's eye. Evan was in a phase of still come off a bad breakup, which broke his heart, so he did casual hookups, but after seeing the relationship that grew between Spencer and Callen he was starting to think he wants more.
After a chance encounter at a nightclub, Evan and Vander met each other. However, Evan gave his number to Vander but left, since he knew who Vander was and thought he was just looking for a hookup. Evan, on the other hand, was starting to work on not looking for just a hookup. Finally, Vander got the nerve to text and ask Evan out (and more than a hookup).
As Evan was planning to get advice from Spencer, he walked in on a venting conversation between Spencer and Callen about Vander. Unfortunately, this makes Evan feel like he can't tell his friend everything, which is when you know when trouble always will happen.
During a wonderful dinner out, Evan and Vander are interrupted by one of Evan's old hookups. This lets many secrets out. Evan is rich and his family owns a big cosmetics company. Evan works at the ballpark (note this where they discovered they both saw one another on Vander's 1st day), yet he was about to share this information along with who his friends are, Spencer and Callen. Lastly, of course, a video of the incident at the restaurant went viral, and now Spencer knows he lied to him.
As life seems to come back to normal, the craziness of dinner, however, Vander can never have normal when he doesn't have parents that support his dream and are continually pushing the family job at him. In his parents' eyes, he is an "ungrateful brat", but to Vander, he didn't care because he had Evan.
However, fresh from the disappointment from his parents, Vander drank away his problems instead of calling Evan to have his comfort. This causes major turmoil for both men. It was so bad it appeared too much damn was done to repair and nothing would ever be right again for Evan and Vander.
Is Evan going to get hurt again? Has Vander done enough to stay with the Emperors and with Evan?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Vander has just been called up to the pros after being stuck in the minors for 3 years as he believes because he is openly gay. However, when he targets a lot of this blame, unnecessary, towards Callen which isn't fair. This also makes his start on the team a bit rocky and might also leave his long-term time on the team in peril. During his 1st at-bat for Espen Emperors, he gets on base and that is when Vander sees the "sexiest man I’d ever seen."
Mr. "sexiest man I’d ever seen" a.k.a. Evan, who was introduced in the 1st book as best friends to Spencer, at the same time Vander was up to bat also saw the Left Fielder and he definitely caught Evan's eye. Evan was in a phase of still come off a bad breakup, which broke his heart, so he did casual hookups, but after seeing the relationship that grew between Spencer and Callen he was starting to think he wants more.
After a chance encounter at a nightclub, Evan and Vander met each other. However, Evan gave his number to Vander but left, since he knew who Vander was and thought he was just looking for a hookup. Evan, on the other hand, was starting to work on not looking for just a hookup. Finally, Vander got the nerve to text and ask Evan out (and more than a hookup).
As Evan was planning to get advice from Spencer, he walked in on a venting conversation between Spencer and Callen about Vander. Unfortunately, this makes Evan feel like he can't tell his friend everything, which is when you know when trouble always will happen.
During a wonderful dinner out, Evan and Vander are interrupted by one of Evan's old hookups. This lets many secrets out. Evan is rich and his family owns a big cosmetics company. Evan works at the ballpark (note this where they discovered they both saw one another on Vander's 1st day), yet he was about to share this information along with who his friends are, Spencer and Callen. Lastly, of course, a video of the incident at the restaurant went viral, and now Spencer knows he lied to him.
As life seems to come back to normal, the craziness of dinner, however, Vander can never have normal when he doesn't have parents that support his dream and are continually pushing the family job at him. In his parents' eyes, he is an "ungrateful brat", but to Vander, he didn't care because he had Evan.
However, fresh from the disappointment from his parents, Vander drank away his problems instead of calling Evan to have his comfort. This causes major turmoil for both men. It was so bad it appeared too much damn was done to repair and nothing would ever be right again for Evan and Vander.
Is Evan going to get hurt again? Has Vander done enough to stay with the Emperors and with Evan?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2021
I was drawn to the blurb for this book— I like sports romances, in general, despite knowing very little about sports, and from what I can tell (admittedly, not much) the author knows baseball. The prose is readable if occasionally clunky— we're told rather than shown significant information and emotions, but overall it flows. I do have to say, though, that I found all of the characters pretty unlikeable. Vander and Callen’s feud is straight out of a bad high-school drama, and Evan’s waffling about how he needs to change his clothes and stop going to clubs to hookup in order to become his own fairytale prince also felt distinctly immature and overly simplistic. If you’re looking for drama, people acting inexplicably for the sake of that drama, and complications that could have been avoided (and sometimes we, as readers are looking for that, it can be fun! This one just didn’t work for me) you might want to give this book a try.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 1, 2021
A bit melodramatic
Overall, an ok read, with a few serious flaws. The melodrama is in overdrive, the main characters act more like young teens that young adults. Evan, the son of wealthy parents has been wronged in love before, and can’t seem to move on. He rejects the trappings of money to be a high school gym teacher/stadium beer vendor. Vander, (I dislike this name, it’s like a cheap porn character) an up and comer from the minors leagues has a chip on his shoulder the size of the Moon, and apparently has succeeded without understanding the concept of Teamwork. Throw in the usual lack of communications, over reactions, beautiful men, bad parents, and so forth you have book 2.
Overall, an ok read, with a few serious flaws. The melodrama is in overdrive, the main characters act more like young teens that young adults. Evan, the son of wealthy parents has been wronged in love before, and can’t seem to move on. He rejects the trappings of money to be a high school gym teacher/stadium beer vendor. Vander, (I dislike this name, it’s like a cheap porn character) an up and comer from the minors leagues has a chip on his shoulder the size of the Moon, and apparently has succeeded without understanding the concept of Teamwork. Throw in the usual lack of communications, over reactions, beautiful men, bad parents, and so forth you have book 2.
August 5, 2021
2.5 stars
Not bad. Not great. Just much of a muchness really.
There are no surprises and the book progresses pretty much as you would expect based on the blurb.
Couldn't bring myself to give it the full 3 stars and that's mainly because I couldn't believe the characters were adults and professional athletes.
They were very childish I felt like I was reading about high school or college guys. The scene at the restaurant on their first date and then the following conversation with Spencer and Callan was ridiculous. It took a lot for me for me to persevere and not DNF at that point.
Also I know I've read book one but I can't remember it so I guess this author may not be for me.
Not bad. Not great. Just much of a muchness really.
There are no surprises and the book progresses pretty much as you would expect based on the blurb.
Couldn't bring myself to give it the full 3 stars and that's mainly because I couldn't believe the characters were adults and professional athletes.
They were very childish I felt like I was reading about high school or college guys. The scene at the restaurant on their first date and then the following conversation with Spencer and Callan was ridiculous. It took a lot for me for me to persevere and not DNF at that point.
Also I know I've read book one but I can't remember it so I guess this author may not be for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2021
✯✯5 Vander & Evan Filled Stars!!!✯✯
This is the second book in The Espen Emperors series . I LOVED the first book and I was praying that Spencer’s best friend Evan got a book Bc OMG he’s the best LOL.
Vander’s been playing left field in the minor league for the last three years. Vander is gay and has been out and proud since forever. Vander feels he’s been stuck in the minors Bc he’s gay.
But, he’s gotten traded to the Espen Emperors and has been called up to the majors. Vander knows he belongs in the majors but feels that if guys like Callen would’ve not hid who he was that maybe he wouldn’t of been held back and the first chance he gets he lets Callen know his feeling’s. It doesn’t go over well with Callen and the team and Vander’s afraid his mouth has just lost him a permanent spot on the team.
Evan’s been out and proud since forever. Evan is heir to the Ashland cosmetic empire but that life never called to him. He’s a gym teacher and loves it and luckily for him his family accepts and loves him.
Evan caught his ex with somebody else and it gutted him. Since then he work’s at the stadium at night & weekends and it’s only been hook ups for Evan. But, seeing his best friend Spencer’s relationship with Callen has him wanting that so he’s giving up hook ups and looking for the one.
Evan and Vander go out one night to the club and end up dancing and everything changes for them. Evan gives Vander his number and leaves before he does something. Vander went to the club looking to let out his frustration and ended up finding someone he wants to see again and more than a hook up.
Evan want’s to tell Spencer and get his advice but ends up walking in on him and Callen talking and learns about him and Vander’s argument.
Evan decides then that he can’t tell Spencer and Callen about going out with Vander or tell Vander who his best friend’s are until the time is right. But, when an argument in a restaurant between Evan’s one-night stand and Vander and it’s all over social media.
Even though the four guy’s get past it thing’s aren’t easy. Evan and Vander go to their families separately for the holidays.
Vander hasn’t heard from his parents. Unlike Evan’s family, Vander’s family doesn’t like his choice of playing in the MLB and they tear into him over it.
Vander goes home to Evan. Evan’s with his sister so Vander doesn’t want to bother him so he goes to a bar to drink away his sorrows.
Next thing he knows he’s waking up in his apartment and doesn’t know how he got there or what happens. By the time he figure’s out what happened social media is saying something else happened and Evan’s distraught and doesn’t want anything to do with him.
Vander’s not sure what to do and he’s shocked by who comes to help him figure it all back.
OMG I thought Spencer and Callen were hot but phew Vander and Evan were hotter. I didn’t think that was possible but it happened LOL.
Kasper, whose one of Evan’s best friend and owner of the Espen Jetties is next and I’m super excited to read his story!!!
This is the second book in The Espen Emperors series . I LOVED the first book and I was praying that Spencer’s best friend Evan got a book Bc OMG he’s the best LOL.
Vander’s been playing left field in the minor league for the last three years. Vander is gay and has been out and proud since forever. Vander feels he’s been stuck in the minors Bc he’s gay.
But, he’s gotten traded to the Espen Emperors and has been called up to the majors. Vander knows he belongs in the majors but feels that if guys like Callen would’ve not hid who he was that maybe he wouldn’t of been held back and the first chance he gets he lets Callen know his feeling’s. It doesn’t go over well with Callen and the team and Vander’s afraid his mouth has just lost him a permanent spot on the team.
Evan’s been out and proud since forever. Evan is heir to the Ashland cosmetic empire but that life never called to him. He’s a gym teacher and loves it and luckily for him his family accepts and loves him.
Evan caught his ex with somebody else and it gutted him. Since then he work’s at the stadium at night & weekends and it’s only been hook ups for Evan. But, seeing his best friend Spencer’s relationship with Callen has him wanting that so he’s giving up hook ups and looking for the one.
Evan and Vander go out one night to the club and end up dancing and everything changes for them. Evan gives Vander his number and leaves before he does something. Vander went to the club looking to let out his frustration and ended up finding someone he wants to see again and more than a hook up.
Evan want’s to tell Spencer and get his advice but ends up walking in on him and Callen talking and learns about him and Vander’s argument.
Evan decides then that he can’t tell Spencer and Callen about going out with Vander or tell Vander who his best friend’s are until the time is right. But, when an argument in a restaurant between Evan’s one-night stand and Vander and it’s all over social media.
Even though the four guy’s get past it thing’s aren’t easy. Evan and Vander go to their families separately for the holidays.
Vander hasn’t heard from his parents. Unlike Evan’s family, Vander’s family doesn’t like his choice of playing in the MLB and they tear into him over it.
Vander goes home to Evan. Evan’s with his sister so Vander doesn’t want to bother him so he goes to a bar to drink away his sorrows.
Next thing he knows he’s waking up in his apartment and doesn’t know how he got there or what happens. By the time he figure’s out what happened social media is saying something else happened and Evan’s distraught and doesn’t want anything to do with him.
Vander’s not sure what to do and he’s shocked by who comes to help him figure it all back.
OMG I thought Spencer and Callen were hot but phew Vander and Evan were hotter. I didn’t think that was possible but it happened LOL.
Kasper, whose one of Evan’s best friend and owner of the Espen Jetties is next and I’m super excited to read his story!!!
August 20, 2021
First, let me say that I am so excited about this series and that Evan got his story. Base Hit is the second book in the Espen Emperors series and I loved it from beginning to end. I absolutely loved the chemistry between Vander and Evan not to mention the heat these two characters brought to the pages. Not only were the characters amazing, but the story itself was enthralling. I fell in love with Evan in the first book of this series, from his snark to his sweet demeanor, how can anyone not love him. Holy smokes is Vander hot!! He kind of irritated me, not gonna lie, at the beginning with how he treated Callen, but the longer I read and got to know him, the more I liked him.
When Vander gets called up from the minors, he knows he has to impress in order to stay on the team. He doesn't want to end up back in the minors and working two to three jobs to make sure he can pay his rent and have food on the table. When he sees Evan for the first time from afar, even though he has no idea who he is, he wants him. When they meet at a club and dance, Vander knows it will never be enough. He wants more but is Evan willing to give it to him. Evan, the heir to the Ashland cosmetics empire, doesn't want a relationship. He's been hurt before by a cheater, so it's easier to have hookups, but can one dance with Vander change that? He knows who Vander is, but Vander doesn't know who he is at first and he wants it to stay that way. The more time they spend together, the more Evan's walls start to come down and the more he lets Vander in. When Evan sees a photo of Vander with another man, can Evan look over his past and trust the relationship he has now? Can they have their happy ending?
I received this ARC for my honest review from the authors and I would highly recommend it.
When Vander gets called up from the minors, he knows he has to impress in order to stay on the team. He doesn't want to end up back in the minors and working two to three jobs to make sure he can pay his rent and have food on the table. When he sees Evan for the first time from afar, even though he has no idea who he is, he wants him. When they meet at a club and dance, Vander knows it will never be enough. He wants more but is Evan willing to give it to him. Evan, the heir to the Ashland cosmetics empire, doesn't want a relationship. He's been hurt before by a cheater, so it's easier to have hookups, but can one dance with Vander change that? He knows who Vander is, but Vander doesn't know who he is at first and he wants it to stay that way. The more time they spend together, the more Evan's walls start to come down and the more he lets Vander in. When Evan sees a photo of Vander with another man, can Evan look over his past and trust the relationship he has now? Can they have their happy ending?
I received this ARC for my honest review from the authors and I would highly recommend it.
August 5, 2021
The addition starts with the book cover….yeah…yeah…yeah don’t judge a book by its cover they say ….well we all do it and this one here it is the scratch to your itch or better yet the filling to your oreos! Speaking of filling…..wait, that’s for later. Within the first chapters you get the panoramic view of whom you’re dealing with! This is book is part of the Espen Emperors series why just read one when you can start at the beginning and keep reading through the series it won’t be a waste of time. Vander’s sexuality has kept him out of the pro for three years even though he is the best at his position, and he is putting the blame on Callen (regardless of if it is fair or not) which doesn’t make for great team spirit. Evan one of the sexiest men out there and the moment he sees Vander step up to bat well his axis tilts just a little but coming out of a bad breakup he isn’t keen on jumping into another basic hook ups, but he wants more. Well while out at the club he gets to dance with the man who caught his eye and giving Vander his number on his way out because wants more than a hook up and how could a guy like Vander be looking to settle down. Vander gets the nerve to ask Evan out and they have a wonderful dinner but an interruption by an old hook up but will the drama that comes after the dinner be it for them or will they work through what’s headed their way, will it be worth it, can Vander work through his issues with his parents do they come around and can the two have happiness?
August 8, 2021
Vander and Evan . . .
This is Evan and Vander’s story. Evan is the heir to a cosmetics company but he prefers to teach. Vander is a baseball player who came out early in the minor leagues. He blames the 3-year wait for the call to the majors on Callen because he figures if Callen had also come out, it would have made Vander less of a target. So Callen and Vander had a bit of hostility going on, although that imagined blame may not be true at all.
When Evan and Vander randomly meet at a club, the attraction is definitely there. But Evan is still getting over a break-up. His buddy is in a relationship with Callen who openly speaks out against Vander because of how Vander has treated him. They will have to work it out and give their relationship a try. But other events mess it up and it’s not certain they will be able to get back on track and get their chance. It is certainly going to take some open communication between the two.
Sometimes Vander seemed like a sulking little boy, yet times may have been more difficult back then to be different and I can understand his resentment. The story is a good one, with lots of emotion and misunderstanding along the way. Can they work it out? Can they reach a HEA? And can they learn to communicate which greatly help any relationship?
This is Evan and Vander’s story. Evan is the heir to a cosmetics company but he prefers to teach. Vander is a baseball player who came out early in the minor leagues. He blames the 3-year wait for the call to the majors on Callen because he figures if Callen had also come out, it would have made Vander less of a target. So Callen and Vander had a bit of hostility going on, although that imagined blame may not be true at all.
When Evan and Vander randomly meet at a club, the attraction is definitely there. But Evan is still getting over a break-up. His buddy is in a relationship with Callen who openly speaks out against Vander because of how Vander has treated him. They will have to work it out and give their relationship a try. But other events mess it up and it’s not certain they will be able to get back on track and get their chance. It is certainly going to take some open communication between the two.
Sometimes Vander seemed like a sulking little boy, yet times may have been more difficult back then to be different and I can understand his resentment. The story is a good one, with lots of emotion and misunderstanding along the way. Can they work it out? Can they reach a HEA? And can they learn to communicate which greatly help any relationship?
July 14, 2024
I am so happy Evan got his happily-ever-after with Vander. Yes, just like every relationship it had its ups and downs but they overcame them. Vander being on pins and needles until that call came and Evan holding back because of his past made the perfect love story. I’m loving this series so far and can’t wait to read book 3, Catcher Interference, because I want to know more about Kasper. 🖤🔥⚾️🔥🖤
My favorite quotes:
• Vander: “This dinner is important to me, too. I have to get it right. Baseball. My contract. Everything is up in the air. But you, Ev, you’re my constant and I can’t have anything messing with that.” If I weren’t already falling for this man, his words would have tipped me in that direction.
• “Don’t apologize for feeling something, Ev. I want you comfortable to let it out when you’re with me. I want to be your safe space.”
I brushed my lips over his. “You are.”
• Evan: The words I felt hadn’t been said. I wouldn’t let them leave my lips yet. But I was truly and utterly head over heels in love with Vander Devlin, and that scared me more than anything else ever had.
My favorite quotes:
• Vander: “This dinner is important to me, too. I have to get it right. Baseball. My contract. Everything is up in the air. But you, Ev, you’re my constant and I can’t have anything messing with that.” If I weren’t already falling for this man, his words would have tipped me in that direction.
• “Don’t apologize for feeling something, Ev. I want you comfortable to let it out when you’re with me. I want to be your safe space.”
I brushed my lips over his. “You are.”
• Evan: The words I felt hadn’t been said. I wouldn’t let them leave my lips yet. But I was truly and utterly head over heels in love with Vander Devlin, and that scared me more than anything else ever had.
August 5, 2021
Evan is the heir to a successful cosmetics company but he has chosen to go his own way and teach instead of working with his family. Vander is an openly gay baseball player who has been playing in the minor leagues for awhile and who wonders if the reason he has had to wait to get called up to the majors is because he won't hide who he is. He is carrying a bit of a chip that is partially directed at Callen, who he felt could have helped by coming out sooner and paved the way. When Evan and Vander meet at a club they have chemistry and an interest in one another. But Evan is still a bit wary after a bad break-up and Evan's good friend is in a relationship with Callen who does not like Vander because of his behavior towards him. This couple has to deal with a lot of issues to find their way to a place where they are comfortable with and trust one another. I enjoyed their story and will go back to read the first story in the series. This was a solid 4.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2021
I don't even know that Callen can be mean asshole to someone aka to Vander and vice versa even though Vander started it first. I find that their banter is funny and entertaining.
While reading this book, I just patiently waiting for the shoes to drop because their relationship is smooth sailing and when I thought the main drama in this book is Vander's parents, then Bam! The real drama hits the fan. I don't expect it TBH.
One thing shouldn't be mentioned in this book is the time that Evan spending his one time experience with Cade (his ONS), sadly the author give some details on that occasion, eww.
I've got different vibes from Vander-Evan and Callen-Spencer's story, while I give it 5 stars but I don't think their story become my favorite. Callen and Spencer's story still my numero uno <3
While reading this book, I just patiently waiting for the shoes to drop because their relationship is smooth sailing and when I thought the main drama in this book is Vander's parents, then Bam! The real drama hits the fan. I don't expect it TBH.
One thing shouldn't be mentioned in this book is the time that Evan spending his one time experience with Cade (his ONS), sadly the author give some details on that occasion, eww.
I've got different vibes from Vander-Evan and Callen-Spencer's story, while I give it 5 stars but I don't think their story become my favorite. Callen and Spencer's story still my numero uno <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2021
loved!
Love this series. And the author duo. They have been killing it. Loved this story. Evan was loved form Spencer’s story with callen. He is the super out and proud friend and with a ton of sass. Loved how this story progressed. They were meant for one another. Loved how Kas and spence rallied around Evan. Just wish he had more faith in vander. He never did anything to make Evan mistrust him and at the first signs of something off in the media he jumps to conclusions and doesn’t even want to talk to him to clear things up. I get that he was previously cheated on but vander did nothing to warrant the level of distrust. He was violated just as the relationship was. Being drugged and almost taken advantage of. I’m glad everything was cleared up. Can’t wait for Kas’ book.
Love this series. And the author duo. They have been killing it. Loved this story. Evan was loved form Spencer’s story with callen. He is the super out and proud friend and with a ton of sass. Loved how this story progressed. They were meant for one another. Loved how Kas and spence rallied around Evan. Just wish he had more faith in vander. He never did anything to make Evan mistrust him and at the first signs of something off in the media he jumps to conclusions and doesn’t even want to talk to him to clear things up. I get that he was previously cheated on but vander did nothing to warrant the level of distrust. He was violated just as the relationship was. Being drugged and almost taken advantage of. I’m glad everything was cleared up. Can’t wait for Kas’ book.
August 3, 2021
Base Hit is the second book in the Espen Emperors series by Haven Hadley.
Vander has finally been called to play for the pros. He has been stuck in the minors for some years, and he think that was because he's openly gay and was refusing to hide it to play baseball. Evan his the heir to the Ashland cosmetic empire but doesn't want to work for his parents compagny. He's happy with his simple life, a teacher, and he also work at the statium to watch the players.
Both of them, encounter at a nightclub and Evan give him is number even if he's unsure if he's ready to trust again after a bad breakup.
I have really love Vander and Evan story and can't wait to read the next one. I have received an arc of this book from the author and booksprout.
Vander has finally been called to play for the pros. He has been stuck in the minors for some years, and he think that was because he's openly gay and was refusing to hide it to play baseball. Evan his the heir to the Ashland cosmetic empire but doesn't want to work for his parents compagny. He's happy with his simple life, a teacher, and he also work at the statium to watch the players.
Both of them, encounter at a nightclub and Evan give him is number even if he's unsure if he's ready to trust again after a bad breakup.
I have really love Vander and Evan story and can't wait to read the next one. I have received an arc of this book from the author and booksprout.
August 6, 2021
Vander and Callen are both baseball players in the major league. Vander has just been moved up from the minors and with that move came an attitude... against Callen. I fell in love with Callen from from Espen Emperors, book 1, so I was not happy about this! Those two need to work it out!!
Vander's first game when he glances up into the stands, he says a gorgeous man that's a hot dog vendor. He would love to be with that one!!
Evan had a bad breakup recently and guards his heart. He's a gym teacher by day and a hot dog/beer vendor at the ball field to supplement his income, even though he doesn't need it.
Evan and Vander get together and all is peachy...until it isn't. Definitely broken hearts that need to be healed and trust that needs to be earned back in this story.
Vander's first game when he glances up into the stands, he says a gorgeous man that's a hot dog vendor. He would love to be with that one!!
Evan had a bad breakup recently and guards his heart. He's a gym teacher by day and a hot dog/beer vendor at the ball field to supplement his income, even though he doesn't need it.
Evan and Vander get together and all is peachy...until it isn't. Definitely broken hearts that need to be healed and trust that needs to be earned back in this story.
August 4, 2021
Oh my god..what a great read! Evan and Vander's love is sweet and romantic. The chemistry between them is hot and erotic! This definitely is love at first sight. This story pulls you in from the beginning and will have you keep reading til the end. You feel for these characters, especially Evan because of what he went through with his prior relationship.
If you have read about Callen abd Spencer, then don't stop there. Yes, these two do make an appearance in this book, but Evan and Vander are THE hot couple. So, if you love hot ballplayers, sexy scenes and romance, then this book is for you!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you have read about Callen abd Spencer, then don't stop there. Yes, these two do make an appearance in this book, but Evan and Vander are THE hot couple. So, if you love hot ballplayers, sexy scenes and romance, then this book is for you!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2021
This is my first book by Haven Hadley and I will be back for more! I really liked Evan and Vander together. These two have amazing connection and chemistry. There is some drama out side of the relationship that causes some issues inside and outside of Evan and Vander's relationship. I really liked how passionate Vander and Evan were with no only their relationship but also their friends. I really enjoyed this book and I can't wait to see what happens next. I would recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 10, 2021
I'm really loving this series so far!! Evan is an heir to a cosmetic company, but he has chosen to be a teacher instead of working with the family. Vander is an openly gay baseball player who thinks that's why he;s never been called up to the majors. Sweet heat with a dash of drama. The characters are flawed but fit together perfectly!! The story is really well written, highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 16, 2022
A New Player Rocks The Boat
When out and proud Vander gets called up from the minor league, he has a big chip on his shoulder against Callen (book1). Then he meets Callen and Spenser's friend Evan, and they can't stay apart. Vander and Evan's path is rocky as they weather one roadblock after another, but they finally find their HEA. With all of the twists and turns, this story was hard to put down.
When out and proud Vander gets called up from the minor league, he has a big chip on his shoulder against Callen (book1). Then he meets Callen and Spenser's friend Evan, and they can't stay apart. Vander and Evan's path is rocky as they weather one roadblock after another, but they finally find their HEA. With all of the twists and turns, this story was hard to put down.
August 5, 2021
I love this series
This series is fantastic. I loved every second of this book. It brings the heat, drama, love, everything you could ever need in a book. The characters are perfect for each other and everything just clicks. If you are looking for a light, low angst book, choose this one. You won't regret it.
This series is fantastic. I loved every second of this book. It brings the heat, drama, love, everything you could ever need in a book. The characters are perfect for each other and everything just clicks. If you are looking for a light, low angst book, choose this one. You won't regret it.
August 6, 2021
After three years in the minors, Vander gets his chance to play in the majors. Evan was dumped by his boyfriend a few years ago and he's getting tired of the one night stands. He meets Vander at a bar and thinks maybe he's ready for a relationship. I really enjoyed this book. It has Vander and Evan learning to trust and depend on each other.
August 8, 2021
I enjoy the story. The one is really good. Interesting characters and relationships among them. Two MEN and love they experience not always easy. Great reality and background that adds to the story. Definitely hot.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 10, 2021
I'm loving this series so far. One teeny tiny complaint. Did you have max limit on the word nipple? Had you already used it too much? Sometimes simpler is better. Had to pause and laugh it out before I finished the scene.
"The little brown disks on his chest called to me and I lowered my head to suck one into my mouth. Evan's back bowed from the bed as my tongue lashed at the small little nub."
"The little brown disks on his chest called to me and I lowered my head to suck one into my mouth. Evan's back bowed from the bed as my tongue lashed at the small little nub."
August 11, 2021
This book is amazing and once again I was caught up in the story I'm not one for m/m romances but these books are so tasteful on how it's written and the story line gets you from page one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 12, 2021
Omg, I loved Evan!
I was waiting for Evan's story and UT did not disappoint. Him and Vander were perfect together!! They were sexy and hilarious! Good book!! Can't wait to read Kasper's story. I'm loving this series.😍
I was waiting for Evan's story and UT did not disappoint. Him and Vander were perfect together!! They were sexy and hilarious! Good book!! Can't wait to read Kasper's story. I'm loving this series.😍
September 21, 2024
Good story, formulaic
I enjoyed the overall story but am not one for the 180 degree changes that seem to happen all the time, caused by misunderstandings and misadventure.
Well written.
I enjoyed the overall story but am not one for the 180 degree changes that seem to happen all the time, caused by misunderstandings and misadventure.
Well written.
August 14, 2021
Well thought out relationship dynamic between Evan and Vander. Perfectly timed humor, fully engaging and realistically flawed characters. Completely relatable.
Jumped straight into the second book in the series and didn't miss out on the story line's ability to keep me entertained.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
Jumped straight into the second book in the series and didn't miss out on the story line's ability to keep me entertained.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
November 14, 2021
I love Evan he is a brilliant character, very fun. Vander is sexy. I love that it’s not a typical Top/Bottom but they go with the flow and see what works for them as they go.
July 20, 2022
Meh. It flowed fine but I wasn’t ever really invested in the story or relationship.
July 28, 2022
A sweet and steamy romance with compelling characters and an engaging premise.
July 10, 2023
I liked Vander and Evan but the end was a bit much. Vander getting drugged and then suddenly they’re all better and moving on? It just felt like a bit much. Overall I liked the book though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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